Archive | Safety

Teaching Children About Strangers

Your toddler’s safety is very important and it is your responsibility as a parent to ensure that. Part of your task is to teach your toddler about strangers. This is essential so you can supply your toddler with the knowledge and skills he will need to safeguard himself in dangerous circumstances. Here are some simple tips for teaching children about strangers.

Provide A Definition of A Stranger

First and foremost, your toddler has to understand what a stranger is. A stranger is an individual your toddler does not know. However, you also have to teach your little one to understand that there are good strangers. Good strangers are people he can turn to if he needs help, is lost or scared such as security guards, police officers, teachers and store clerks. Aside from those people, any individual he does not know is a stranger.

Teach Your Toddler Rules

Discuss with your toddler stranger danger safety by teaching him the following rules –

•    Grown-ups who need help should ask another grown-up.
•    It is okay to talk to a stranger if a trusted adult is with him or if you say it is okay.
•    Never tell someone your name or where you live.
•    Do not accept candies or anything that is being offered to you if you do not know the person.
•    Never answer the door.
•    Never go with a stranger no matter what the stranger tells you.
•    If a stranger comes too close, he should run or shout as loudly as possible.

Show Your Toddler What To Do

Teach your little one that whenever a stranger comes close to him no matter what the reason is, he should hold up both hands in front of him and scream, “Stop!” as loudly as he can. If the stranger continues to come forward, the child should yell again, “No!” and “I do not know you!.”. If your toddler is within arm’s reach of the stranger, he should run and yell as loudly as he can. Generally, this action will alert any individual in the area and help ensure the safety of your toddler.

Practice Makes Perfect

Teaching children about strangers will not be effective if they do not practice it. Give your toddler different scenarios. For instance, “You are busy playing at the park while mommy is busy pushing your little sister on the slide when suddenly a friendly woman you do not know walks up to you and gives you a candy. What should you do?”. Role playing is an ideal way to test your toddler’s stranger awareness. The more your toddler practices, the more aware and confident he will feel, the lesser he will be scared when faced with such situation.

Use Different Resources To Teach Your Toddler About Strangers

Teaching children about strangers does not have to be boring. Read books together with a stranger theme. Try books such as “Little Red Riding Hood” and “The Berenstein Bears Learn About Strangers”. After reading, discuss the story. Ask questions such as “What would you do if a stranger approaches you?”, how he felt and what he learned from the story. Rent or purchase DVDs about stranger awareness. Provide your little one printable coloring pages or activity sheets (visit Activity Village) to emphasize concepts.

Buddy System

Talk to your toddler about the significance of always having a buddy with him, whether he is playing or walking. Ask your little one to draw two people on a piece of paper. Have him write how each person on the paper can help the other if a stranger approaches. Let your toddler know that a buddy can always ask for help if something happens to them.

Teach Your Toddler To Stay Close To You

Another way of teaching children about strangers is to instruct your little one to hold your hand or stay within your visual range whenever the two of you are in a public place. Better yet, strap your toddler into his stroller if he likes to wander from place to place.

Have Your Toddler Memorize His Contact Information

Help your toddler write his name, emergency contact number and address in an index card. Encourage him to practice saying it aloud. Memorizing contact information would be very helpful for your toddler in case he ever needs access to it.

Toddlers should be taught stranger danger safety as early as possible. These safety measures will teach your toddler how to react when dealing with this type of situation.

Posted in Safety, Toddler Safety TipsComments (0)

Fire Safety Tips For Children

Fire safety is a subject rarely discussed by parents to their children. Toddlers are explorers and there is a huge possibility that they will find themselves playing with fire. This simple guideline about fire safety tips for children can help parents keep their children well-informed and out of danger.

Educate Your Toddler

The number one fire safety tip for children is to make sure a toddler understands that fire is for grown-ups. Fire is bright and it flickers which will most likely grab your toddler’s attention. As soon as you detect that your toddler has any inkling of an interest in fire, be sure to tell your little one that fire is not a toy for children, he should not play with fire and that fire is something that adults use to heat things and cook with. See to it you stress the fact that fire can burn and is very hazardous. When explaining this to your toddler, make sure you use words that your toddler can comprehend. Use words from his own vocabulary such as “boo boo”, “hot” and “ouch” to let your toddler know that fire will hurt him if he touches it.

Keep Fire Sources Out of Reach

Out of sight, out of mind. This adage is especially true when it comes to fire. Children are very inquisitive by nature so despite your best efforts to educate your toddler about the dangers of fire, he may get the urge to test it out for himself. To ensure this does not happen, put fire sources where your little one cannot gain access to. Cover outlets that are not in use. Keep electrical wires secured. Keep the fireplace covered with a screen. Stash matches, lighters and candles in a drawer with a lock.

Explain The Use of Smoke Detectors

A home with a smoke alarm cuts the risk of dying in a fire in half. Teach your toddler about smoke detectors – why they are important, how they work and what sound they make. Toddlers should be able to link the sound going off with a fire as part of fire safety for children.

Develop An Escape Plan

It is very important for every family to have an escape plan in case of fire. Find two ways out of every room in case one way is obstructed by fire or smoke. Practice escaping by both routes to make sure windows are not trapped and screens can be taken out easily. In addition, choose a meeting place outside such as a big tree or the house across so you will know that everyone has gotten out safe and sound.

Teach Your Toddler What To Do In Case of Fire

Knowing what to do in case of fire is something toddlers have to learn early. Teach your little one to:

•    Cover his mouth and nose with a damp towel or clothing to avoid inhaling smoke while evacuating.
•    Fall and crawl under the smoke to safety.
•    Stop, drop and roll in case his clothes are on fire.
•    Test if a door is hot before opening it using the back of his hand.
•    Never hide, stop to take any belonging or make a call. He has to go outside as fast as he can.

Practice

Most importantly, practice fire drills frequently (once a month if possible). Rehearsing what to do during a fire is very essential so your little one is aware of what he has to do instead of crying for help and hiding under the bed which will only increase his chances of getting trapped in the house. To make learning about fire safety more entertaining for your toddler, why not take him to a local fire station where he can learn fire safety lessons in a fun way. Watching videos about fire safety can also encourage your toddler to practice it at home.

Be Cautious Around Fire Yourself

Children learn by example and there is no better way you can instil fire safety awareness to your toddler than by showing him that you are following preventive measures as well. You can have your toddler participate in this by asking him to give you oven mitts or help you make sure the candles are blown out before going to bed.

Do not wait until it is too late to teach your precious one about fire safety. As soon as your toddler can understand household directions, he is  ready to learn fire safety tips as well.

Posted in Safety, Toddler Safety TipsComments (0)

The Best Sunscreen For Toddlers

Whether your toddler is in the backyard, park or at the beach, wearing sunscreen all year round is a must. Here is a round-up of the best sunscreen for toddlers.

Aveeno Baby Sunblock SPF 55

At the top of the list of the best sunscreen for toddlers is Aveeno Baby Continuous Protection SPF 55. This is a great sunscreen from the manufacturer of one of the best loved children’s products. It has UVA and UVB protection and active photo barrier complex which offers better and long-lasting sun protection. It is easy to apply and gentle on your toddler’s delicate skin. It is fragrance-free and water-resistant so it will not wear from sand, sweat or water. Plus, it has colloidal oatmeal to keep your toddler’s skin from losing its natural moisture which is great for toddlers with dry skin. You can buy this sunscreen at your local drugstores for $9.25 for a 4.5 ounce sized bottle.

Alba Botanica Natural Very Emollient Mineral Kids

Alba Botanica Natural Very Emollient Mineral Kids is also of one of the best sunscreen for toddlers. This is a natural, budge-free sunscreen with a broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection of SPF 30. It is waterproof (40 minutes), paraben-free and made of chemical-free sunscreen ingredients. This sunscreen is lightweight and fast absorbing. It contains grape seed oil and vitamin E offering antioxidant protection and aloe vera, jojoba oil and sunflower seed oil to keep a toddler’s skin soft and moisturized. Visit the Alba Botanica website if you want to purchase one (costs $10.99).

Badger SPF Sunscreen For Face and Body

Badger sunscreen is one of the safest sunscreen for toddlers on the market. It has a natural, hydrating and soothing way to protect your toddler’s skin from sun damage without causing irritation or leaving your toddler’s skin oily. It contains essential oils such as jojoba oil, cocoa butter, shea butter and lime oil which leave a light and pleasing fragrance. This also offers UVA and UVB protection and is water-resistant. You can buy one for $10.99 from pharmacies and grocery stores.

California Baby Water-resistant Hypoallergenic Sunscreen SPF30+

California Baby is also considered one of the best sunscreen for toddlers. It provides utmost protection for the sensitive skin of babies and toddlers. This formula is specifically formulated for young skin and will shield it from the harmful rays of the sun. It is water-resistant, chemical and PABA free, non-comedogenic and non-staining. It is a treat to put on, smells great and comes in a very cute packaging. It is a 2.9 ounce sized bottle (for $22.98) making it very handy – you can stick it in your pocket or stash it in your purse.

Mustela High Protection Sun Lotion SPF 50

Mustela High Protection Sun Lotion SPF 50 is a 100% mineral based sunscreen. It is perfect for toddlers because it ensures optimal defense from the sun with its extra broad spectrum (long and short UVA and UVB rays) as it contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. It is hypoallergenic so toddlers with very sensitive skin can use them. It is free of fragrance, sweat and water-resistant and has no chemical filters. Plus, it is easy to apply on skin and leaves a soft feeling. In addition, it is very affordable as it only costs $8.98.

Soleo Organics Sunscreen SPF 30+

Included in the list of the best sunscreen for toddlers is Soleo’s Organic Sunscreen SPF 30+. It is chemical free and is highly effective against sun damage. Made from all-natural ingredients, Soleo Organics Sunscreen SPF 30+ is ideal not just for young children but for the whole family as well. It uses the revolutionary micronized zinc technology to supply broad sun protection without leaving your toddler’s skin white. This brand is pricier (costs $22) but with the benefits and protection it offers your toddler’s skin, every dollar you spend is worth it.

Kiss My Face Sport Clear Spray Spritz

If you have a little athlete or a toddler who loves to spend almost all of his time outdoors, Kiss My Face Sport Clear Spray Spritz is your toddler’s perfect companion. It is quick-drying and sweat-resistant so it will not run into your toddler’s eyes and sting. It leaves a light coconut scent so your little one can stay sweet-smelling amidst the sweat. It is available in an 8 ounce sized bottle for $16.99.

Protecting your toddler’s skin is truly a must. These brands of sunscreen for toddlers are tried and tested by the experts and parents so they are guaranteed safe for the little ones.

Posted in Safety, Toddler Safety ProductsComments (0)

Sports Safety For Children

Encouraging a toddler to take part in sports is a great way to boost a toddler’s development and health. However, there is always a risk of injury. Parents can follow these sports safety guide for children to help reduce that threat.

Choose Age-appropriate Sports

The number one sports safety rule for children is to pick a sport that suit a child’s age and capability. Children under the age of five are still not ready to play organized sports such as martial arts, gymnastics, golf and track and field. This is because it puts too much pressure on a child who is still developing his dexterity. Sports such as running, kickball, biking (with training wheels or a tricycle), climbing and soccer are best for smaller children.

Have A Physical Examination

Before going into any sport, child health experts recommend children to go through a physical examination. A physical examination is necessary to determine whether or not a child is fit enough to play sports. An overweight, underweight, out of shape or a child with restricted mobility is at risk for injury as compared to children who are more physically competent. Having this test also helps point out any problems early on so the toddler’s doctor can come up with methods to treat these deficiencies.

Use The Right Gear

Every sport has its own gear. It is very important for parents to provide gear that protects, fits correctly and is appropriate for the sport. Protective eyewear is recommended for a toddler who will play soccer, knee pads and helmets with an adjustable strap for biking and for other sports that can bruise or scratch a toddler’s face and mouth guard for basketball. See to it that the child understands the proper use of the gears.

Make Sure There Is A Warm-up and Cool-down Period

Warm-up and cool-down periods are necessary for any sport. The warming up period is essential to get the body ready into good condition and prepares cardiac function for increased activity and minimizes the threat of stress being placed on the heart. The cooling down period is vital for slowly cooling the body down from rigorous physical activity and also help normalize breathing and heart rate.

Hydrate

Also one of the most important sports safety tip for children is to stay hydrated. Playing physically demanding activities can be draining and inadequate water supply in the body can lead to dehydration. Hence, it is imperative for parents to ensure that they provide their toddlers plenty of water or sports drink to replenish the lost fluids in the body.

Use Sunscreen

Children who are into sports must use sunscreen. The sun’s harmful UV (ultraviolet) rays can cause damage to a child’s sensitive skin and may cause skin cancer later in life. Make it a habit to apply sunscreen to the toddler’s skin at least 30 minutes before he goes out. Choose a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and has UVA and UVB protection.

Practice A Healthy Lifestyle

No, this does not mean a child who is active in sports can only eat fruits and vegetables forever. A bar of chocolate or a glass of soft drink every now and then is fine as long as the toddler has a healthy diet. In addition, getting plenty of rest is also very important to allow the toddler to recuperate after a rigorous event.

Seek Medical Care

Never let a child who is tired or hurt (no matter how minor) to participate in a sporting event. A toddler can develop bone fracture and a sprained muscle can easily become a torn muscle. Consult the doctor at once if the toddler is injured or develops symptoms that impedes with the toddler’s aptitude to play.

Sports can be a source of enjoyment for children, help them develop their skills and learn values. But, parents should always remember these sports safety tips for children to ensure their precious ones are safe and sound.

Posted in Safety, Toddler ProofingComments (0)

Bicycle Safety Tips For Children

Your toddler’s bicycle will serve as his first vehicle and will also help him hone and strengthen his motor skills. Because your toddler will probably spend most of his time with his bike, it is important to teach him bicycle safety from the very beginning. The following are some bicycle safety tips for children.

Make Sure The Child’s Bicycle Is The Proper Size

One of the most important bicycle safety tips for children is to ensure that your toddler’s bike is properly sized. A bicycle that is too big for your toddler can be a safety hazard. To check whether your toddler’s bike is the right size for his height, the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) suggests standing over the bicycle. There should be a space of 1 to 2 inches between your body and the top bar (tube) for a toddler bike. The seat must be proportionate front to back and the seat height must be adjusted so that there is a slight curve at the knee when the leg is completely extended. The handlebar must be aligned with the seat. When your toddler is sitting on the seat and clutching the handlebars, he must be able to place the balls of his feet on the ground.

Check The Bike

Before your little one hops on his bicycle, see to it that the bike is in excellent working condition. Wheels and handlebars should be tight, tires are inflated well, the brake is working and the chain fits fine and is not busted. If your new rider is still using training wheels, make sure that they are installed properly and that they still are in good order. Many bikes for toddlers are made cheaply, especially the training wheels.

Set Rules

Even if your little one will not cruise busy streets, it is still very imperative that your toddler knows bike safety rules and his limitations. Have your toddler attend a bike safety class for kids. Inform him that he is not allowed to ride his bicycle at night, without adult supervision, without a helmet and that he should always inform you before he rides his bike. Make sure you make these rules very clear.

Dress Appropriately

Another bicycle safety tip for children is to dress them in bright clothes so they can be seen by others. Do not let your toddler wear white colored clothes or a white helmet since wearing white has never been confirmed to make a person more visible. Rather, dress your little rider in bright, neon or fluorescent tops and have him wear knee pads. Avoid loose-fitting pants. The right footwear is also important. Do not let your toddler wear flip flops or sandals. Have him wear sneakers with Velcro closure. If shoes have shoelaces, see to it that you tie shoelaces securely as they may be trapped in the bike chain and cause an accident.

Always Wear A Helmet

Of course, wearing a helmet is another very essential bicycle safety tip for children.  Always make your toddler wears a helmet each time he rides his bicycle even if he only rides in the driveway or your backyard. Get your little one a well fitted bike helmet. Make sure it fits securely, has adjustable straps, does not block vision, is the correct size for your toddler’s head and has been approved by the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission).

Keep An Eye On Your Rider

Toddlers should never be left alone while riding their bikes. There should be someone who will stay close to your toddler every time he is on his bicycle and to ensure that your toddler is riding on a smooth and even surface. Or better yet, bike with your toddler. Not only will you be able to supervise him but this also creates an opportunity to increase bonding time.

Bicycling is one of the greatest joys of childhood. So make sure to always keep these safety tips in mind to keep this activity fun, safe and healthy for your precious one.

Posted in Safety, Toddler Safety TipsComments (0)

Tips For Buying Safety Gates For Toddlers

Now that your toddler is becoming more mobile and is more curious of exploring his environment, you have to put boundaries on where your toddler can and cannot go. To help make your job easier, you need to buy a child safety gate. Safety gates for toddlers are an essential childproofing gear you must have in your home. Here are safety gate buying tips that will help you figure out how to buy the best safety gate that will offer your toddler protection around the house.

Assess Your Needs

The first thing you have to consider when buying safety gates for toddlers is your needs. Do you want a safety gate for the stairs? Or are you looking for one that can prevent your little one from accessing the bathroom or kitchen? You can choose from two types of child safety gates – hardware-mounted and pressure-mounted safety gates.

A hardware-mounted safety gate is permanently secured to the walls with screws. This is ideally used at the top or bottom of the steps in your home. Hardware-mounted child safety gates are pricier and harder to set-up than pressure-mounted gates but they are durable and gives better protection. On the other hand, a pressure-mounted safety gate can be moved from room to room and relies on pressure to stay in place. This gate is more affordable and is best used for less hazardous areas such as doorways, not the staircase.

Think About Height

Height is another important consideration when choosing safety gates for toddlers. Look for a safety gate that is short enough so you can simply get over it without having to take it down each time you need to get by but at the same time, tall enough to so your little one cannot get over it or climb over.

Check The Spacing of The Bars

Go for a child safety gate with vertical slats or one with a fine mesh screen. Vertical slats and mesh screens are more effective in preventing a toddler from climbing over. In addition, see to it that the bars are set close enough together, no more than 2 3/8 inches apart. This is to keep your little one from placing his head in between the slats and avoid getting trapped. If you prefer a child safety gate with a mesh screen, make sure that the holes are not small enough to keep your toddler from poking through the holes and trapping his tiny fingers.

Get The Right Size

Another point parents should keep an eye out when buying safety gates for toddlers is the size. Look for a safety gate that is wide enough. Opt for a gate with an extension so it can secure a larger area or a gate with interlocking sections to enclose a bigger hazard.

Choose One That Opens Easily

Pick a child safety gate that is easy to open. Choose a door that you can effortlessly open with one hand but automatically locks behind you, restricting your toddler from following you. This way, you will not have to worry if you or other family members latched the gate behind them.

Make Sure It Has The Seal

Safety gates for toddlers should bear a seal that they are JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) and ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) certified. This seal serves as a guarantee that the safety gate has passed current safety standards.

Try Before You Buy

As much as possible, test a few models in the store before heading to the cashier. This way, the sales personnel can show you the proper way of installing the safety gate and to make sure that the safety gate you choose is in excellent condition and is safe and easy to use.

To maximize the effectiveness of your child safety gate, always keep a close eye on your toddler. Remember, no gate can completely safeguard your toddler from mishaps.

Posted in Safety, Toddler Safety GatesComments (0)

Helping Your Toddler Prepare For An Emergency

Being prepared for any emergency is something every individual must learn, including toddlers. Helping your toddler prepare for an emergency is not as hard as you think. Here are some basic tips about emergency preparedness for children.

Talk To Your Toddler

Instead of protecting your toddler from possible tragedies, educate your toddler about the different kinds of disasters. This is the best way to alleviate his fears. Talk about the difference between a problem and an emergency. A problem is something that he needs help with but does not need emergency services while an emergency requires immediate assistance. Encourage him to ask questions about fires, floods, earthquakes, etc. and make sure you answer them as clearly as possible. Provide various scenarios and ask your toddler how he would react to it. For instance, you can say “What would you do if there is an earthquake?” or “Who will you call if there is an intruder in the house?”. Doing this will help you evaluate what your toddler already knows as well as give him appropriate actions he must do during an emergency.

Come Up With A Plan

Plan escape routes with your toddler. Determine how you can get out of your house quickly, which exits to use and who to call in case of an emergency. Assign a meeting place where everyone can gather in case there is a need to evacuate and do a head count to ensure all members of the family are present.

Prepare An Emergency Kit Together

Organize an emergency kit with your toddler. Show him each item and explain its purposes. Items that must be present in an emergency kit include:

  • Flashlights
  • Battery-operated radio
  • Extra batteries
  • First-aid kit
  • Bottled water
  • Cash
  • Important documents stored in a water-resistant and fireproof container (e.g. birth and marriage certificates, passports, insurance papers)
  • 3-day supply of non-perishable foods for each family member (formula milk, canned soup, vegetables, meat and juice, granola bars, candies, dry pasta, crackers and cereals)
  • Extra clothes
  • Blankets
  • Sanitation items (diaper, toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.)
  • A few books and toys

Practice

It is very important that you do practice runs on a regular basis. Act out what should be done if an emergency came up. Practice going to your basement to prepare for a tornado. Teach him to crawl out of your house, get under a sturdy table during an earthquake or how to tell if someone is breathing so he can pass the information to the 911 operator.

Conduct a surprise drill. Being under pressure is the best way to determine whether your toddler truly knows how to act during an emergency. Play “Black Out” one evening. Turn off all the lights in your home and get out flashlights. Spend at least 2 hours without electricity to see what your toddler would do.

It is normal for your toddler to feel scared during an emergency. But, by preparing your toddler at an early age, your toddler will likely be less anxious because he knows how to react.

Posted in Safety, Toddler ProofingComments (0)

Six Surprising Safety Hazards For Your Toddler

You may have bought the best childproofing gadgets to keep your toddler safe and sound. But did you know there are some safety hazards you may have ignored that can cause serious harm to your toddler? Check out these safety hazards you might be unaware of.

Bed

The bed is a place of rest, comfort and security. However, what many do not know is that a bed can be a potential safety hazard for children. How? Certain objects, bedcovers and toys can cause suffocation. Also, your toddler might fall off the bed if he tends to move a lot in his sleep.

Safety Tip: To prevent accidents, avoid putting stuffed animals, bumpers and too many pillows in the bed. Instead, place pillows and a thick blanket on the floor around the bed as an emergency landing pad. Better yet, purchase toddler bed rails to keep your toddler from falling out of the bed. Regularly check the condition of the bed. See to it there are no chips, protruding corners, sharp objects, creaks and that it is still strong enough to support your toddler.

Dishwasher

It is common for toddlers to explore their home. One favorite household item toddlers consider a toy is a dishwasher. Little wanderers find joy in dishwashers because they have racks, buttons and sounds. Unfortunately, a dishwasher gives your toddler easy access to knives, forks and other sharp items. His tiny hands can get crushed and he can swallow dishwashing soap which can burn the esophagus.

Safety Tip: Point utensils downward in the utensil container. Use a dishwasher child lock to keep the dishwasher latched when it is not in use.

Bags

A purse, shoulder bag, backpack, suitcase and pouch can put your toddler’s safety at risk. Your little one can choke himself if he plays with bag straps or gains access to the contents of the bag (lipstick, pens, coins, medications, etc.) and hurt his hands with the zippers.

Safety Tip: Always store your bag in a place that is out of your toddler’s reach (e.g. in a locked cabinet or closet).

Power Windows

A lot of accidents and deaths have been reported involving children and car windows. A toddler can lose or squeeze his fingers or injure his head if he puts his hand or head out the window then accidentally leans on the switch, causing the window to close on him.

Safety Tip: Use the lock control so your child will not be able to operate power windows. Never leave your toddler alone inside the car.

Car Seats

By this time, your toddler probably knows how to operate a car seat and he may try unbuckling himself without your knowledge. This makes him prone to danger in case you suddenly step on the break or encounter a head-on collision.

Safety Tip: The number one reason why toddlers unbuckle themselves in their car seat is because they are bored. Make car rides more exciting by playing his favorite songs or bringing a toy to entertain him. You can also try sticking some Velcro underneath the buckle or turn the belt buckle around to make it more difficult for your toddler to unlatch himself.

Balloons

Children love balloons. They are colorful and they float in the air. But once your toddler inhales them or chokes on them, it can lead to death. Why? Balloons, especially latex balloons can conform to your toddler’s throat and totally block the airway making it difficult for your toddler to breath.

Safety Tip: Opt for Mylar balloons instead of traditional rubber balloons. They are safer, do not pop and are recyclable. Do not let your toddler play or blow latex balloons. If a balloon pops, immediately dispose all the pieces.

Safety hazards are everywhere. But, by keeping an alert eye and following certain precautionary measures, you can safeguard your precious one from danger.

Posted in Safety, Toddler ProofingComments (0)

Toddler Safety – Childproofing A Toddler’s Room

Toddlers love exploring the world around them, but sadly, that world can hurt them. Luckily, there is one place where you can have total control over your toddler’s security – his bedroom. Here are some toddler safety tips to help you make sure your toddler’s room is as safe as possible.

Make An Assessment

How can you determine whether your toddler’s room is safe or unsafe? By getting down on the floor and examining things from your toddler’s height. What do you see that could pose a risk to your child’s safety? Are his toys out of reach? Are there tall furnitures that can collapse on him? Are electrical cords hidden or spread on the floor? Placing yourself in your toddler’s point of view is the best way to identify hazards.

Use A Bed

A crib can no longer provide security once a child reaches toddlerhood. Toddlers can climb out of cribs increasing the risk of a fall. If your toddler has a convertible crib, you may still use it as this can be converted into a toddler bed. If not, you need to buy your child a toddler bed. Choose one that is sturdy and has a simple design. Just spruce it up with colorful or cartoon-themed beddings. Buy side rails (if the bed does not have one) so you can keep your toddler from rolling off the bed at night.

Secure Furnitures

Your toddler’s room should be spacious so your little one can freely wander around. Keep furnitures to a minimum - a dresser, cabinet, bookcase, a small play table and one or two child-size chairs. Secure cabinets, shelves and the dresser to the wall using safety brackets to prevent your little one from climbing or dragging the furniture down on top of him. Place edge guards on the corners of the furnitures your toddler might ran into. Make sure there are no fragile items in his room (e.g. glass).

Secure Cords and Electrical Outlets

Electricity is dangerous for everyone, most especially to a toddler. Your toddler’s curious hands can get him into big trouble. To avoid that, cover electrical outlets with sliding safety plates which are hard to remove. For cords and wires, tie them up or use a cord shortener or wind-ups to keep your toddler from grabbing them or wrapping them around his neck which can cause strangulation.

Evaluate Doors and Windows

Your toddler’s bedroom door should have a knob that does not lock to prevent your toddler from locking himself in his room and getting trapped. Secure windows with window guards to place a barrier between your toddler and open windows. Use window stops to prevent your child from opening them. As much as possible do not install curtains. But if you insist on using them, opt for cordless blinds.

Arrange Things Systematically

Proper arrangement can minimize the risk of exposing your toddler to danger. Place the items your toddler regularly uses such as toys, books and art materials in a place where he can easily reach them. Place them on low shelves or in colorful, easy to open baskets and plastic containers.

A toddler’s room is considered as a safe haven for children. Following these preventative measures will help keep your toddler secure in his room and give you peace of mind.

Posted in Safety, Toddler ProofingComments (0)

Internet Safety For Kids

The internet plays a huge role in a child’s life. The internet is a great tool, but it can also bring danger to children since young users are more vulnerable and are generally more at risk than adults. Thus, it is essential for parents to follow these tips about internet safety for kids.

Tweak Your Computer

Anti-virus and firewall software are a must for every computer so make sure you have them installed. Use the parental control settings on your browser (most Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have one), filter search engines (Yahoo! Kids and KidsClick are child-friendly search engines) or choose a child-friendly home page (e.g. KidRocket.com, SurfKnight.com or Zoodles.com) in your browser settings to control your toddler’s access.

Educate Your Toddler

Bear in mind that these online protection tools and parental controls do not guarantee that your toddler will be completely safeguarded from the risks on the web so it is important that you educate your toddler about internet safety. Explain to him that while the internet is a good source of entertainment and education, there are inappropriate things happening in the web that are unsafe for children. Tell him that personal information (name, home address, phone number, password, etc.) must be kept private. Tell your toddler that if he sees anything disturbing, he should notify you right away.

Limit Internet Time

It might be tempting to leave your little one clicking away in front of the computer so you can finish your chores, but remember – the more time your toddler spends using the computer, the higher the risk he is exposed to dangerous things. Set a strict time limit for online play. 10 to 20 minutes of online play is the recommended time frame for toddlers. Provide your toddler with plenty of activities such as reading, drawing, DIY projects, sports and playing with other children at the playground so he has tons of fun things to do, minimizing internet time.

Be On The Lookout

Always keep a close eye on your toddler every time your little one is online. It is a good idea to place the computer in a public space such as your living room instead of putting it in your toddler’s bedroom so you can still check in often while doing laundry or preparing dinner. Doing so also helps you easily detect if your toddler is trying to hide something.

Surf The Web Together

It is important to be involved with your toddler’s internet life. Make time to surf child-friendly websites and play online games together. Talk about what he is doing on the web.

Make Sure To Log Out

Do not forget to sign out and close windows each time you are done using the computer. This will keep your toddler from gaining access and accidentally deleting your important files. It is a good idea to give your toddler his own log-in on your operating system so you can be sure everything he can access is good for him.

Taking an active role in your toddler’s internet activities will help make sure that your child benefits from the useful information the internet offers without exposing him to danger.

Posted in Safety, Toddler ProofingComments (0)

advert
  1. We welcome any feedback, questions or comments

Calendar

August 2020
M T W T F S S
« Feb    
 12
3456789
10111213141516
17181920212223
24252627282930
31